Manchester United's likelihood of acquiring striker Benjamin Sesko increases over Newcastle United after a £74m offer is made
Manchester United Secure Sesko Signing Over Newcastle United
In a surprising turn of events, Benjamin Sesko has chosen Manchester United over Newcastle United, signing a five-year contract with the Red Devils for an estimated €85 million (£73.7 million) including add-ons. This move comes after Newcastle were previously clear favourites at 8/15 for signing the RB Leipzig striker.
Sesko, a 22-year-old striker who scored 21 goals last term and has a total of 39 goals and 8 assists in 87 appearances for RB Leipzig, expressed a strong preference for a move to Old Trafford despite Newcastle offering a higher upfront fee and Champions League football opportunities. United’s initial offer was lower upfront (£65.4m vs. Newcastle’s £71.9m plus add-ons) but matched overall.
Newcastle made multiple bids, including an improved offer of £69.7m plus add-ons, but ultimately missed out to United, who negotiated a deal avoiding an expensive bidding war by paying less upfront but ensuring add-ons and a sell-on clause.
Following the announcement, Sesko was officially presented by Manchester United and spoke positively about the club’s project and future ambitions, emphasizing the supportive atmosphere and his desire to help the team compete for major trophies.
This signing is part of Manchester United's summer reshaping of its attack, with Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha also joining the club. The total spending exceeds £200m as the club aims to rebuild under manager Ruben Amorim.
Meanwhile, Newcastle's odds for signing Sesko have increased to 5/2 after United's reported interest. Real Madrid, PSG, Aston Villa, Man City, Tottenham, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid all have longer odds than Newcastle for signing Sesko, suggesting that the striker's decision may have narrowed down the potential suitors.
It's also worth noting that Manchester United are said to be open to selling Rasmus Hojlund for around £30m. The club's transfer activity continues to be closely monitored as the summer transfer window progresses.
- Despite Newcastle United offering a higher upfront fee, Benjamin Sesko opted for Manchester United, indicating a preference for the European Premier League over the potential Champions League football opportunities with the Magpies.
- With Manchester United's signing of Benjamin Sesko, the club has invested significantly in the European leagues, joining forces with Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha as they aim to rebuild their attack under manager Ruben Amorim, overshadowing Newcastle's now longer odds of signing Sesko.
